Pomeroy, RobertThe application of analytical chemistry to forensic, environmental and industrial chemistry, then bridge these experiences into the classroom. This also includes the role technology and instrumentation play in discovery and problem solving.

Contact Information

LSOE of Chemistry and Biochemistry1992-1993 United States Naval Academy Asst Prof1993 -2007 Nova Southeastern University Prof

Analytical Chemistry has been defined by some as the art of determining how much of what is where and in which form. In forensic science applications, I interact with a group of colleagues interested in the application of Real Time PCR to forensic analyses. This has taken the form of determining PSA in semen stains by Immuno RT-PCR, determining SNP genotype frequencies in different ethnic groups, and most recently the use of the BioTrove Open Array Platform for the analysis of a SNP panel for use in human identification. The SNP panel will not replace the STR CODIS DNA analysis, but can aid investigators in degraded samples and may provide phenotypic information about the suspect.

For environmental applications I recently completed a study of biodegradability of the antimicrobial triclosan during secondary water treatment processes. I also work to develop new processes or formulations for manufacturing companies to reduce waste and recycle by-products or produce products with a lower environmental impact. These include: Use of Aluminum Phosphate as a Hardening Agent for Silicate Coatings on Quartz, Low VOC Mastic, Ultra Light Weight Thin Set, IR Reflective Decking and Stucco, Dry Formula Cement Based Paint, and Use of Psyllium Powder for Paver Mortars.

I have also recently started to interact with the student organization producing biodiesel. I am participating by helping with the analysis of the biofuels they produce.

Primary Research Area
Chemical Education

Interdisciplinary interests

Atmospheric and Environmental
Materials

Outreach Activities

I am mentoring a group of undergraduates in a group known as BAAN (Biodiesel Action and Awareness Network) They are a group of students with diverse backgrounds that are interested in the conversion of waste cooking oils into useable biodiesel.

The BAAN group and the outreach are having a direct and positive impact. This interaction has lead to invitations to present the BAAN group and its work to a local American Chemical Society (ACS) meeting, a biofuels symposium at Southwestern College, and working with students and teachers from the South Bay area of San Diego.

Recruited and mentored several underrepresented minority students.

Participated in the NOBCChE (National Organization for the Professional Advancement of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers) meetings.

Serve as the departmental representative to a new program creating summer research experience for undergraduates from HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities)

Hosted high school students from Castle Park High School (87%Hispnic) to summer research experiences.

Host a biodiesel workshop for the students attending the Institute of the Americas Summer Science Camp.

Appointed as the Chair of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry Diversity Committee.

Image Gallery

BioTrove Open Array Plate - 3072 Sample wells with a total reaction volume as low as 33 nL.

Micrograph of a microsphere (cenosphere) embedded in a mortar matrix. A cenosphere is a lightweight, inert, hollow or porous spheres composed of silica and alumina and filled with air or nitrogen. Cenospheres are a by-product of the burning process in co